2004 Ford C-MAX vs. 1981 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Ford C-MAX is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford C-MAX (104 HP @ 6150 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford C-MAX should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford C-MAX weights approximately 185 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2004 Ford C-MAX (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Ford C-MAX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford C-MAX | 1981 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | C-MAX | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6150 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
